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There are countless reminders about the importance of slapping on some sunscreen each summer but few warning about the sun's impact on our eyes.

Fortunately, VisionofChildren.org recently posted some timely information that applies just as much to adults as to kids.

UVA and UVB rays can have both short- and long-term effects on vision. In the short term, it's possible to get eye "sunburn", an often painful condition called photokeratitis. There can be temporary vision loss but permanent damage is unlikely.

More serious, according to the website, is the possible formation of cataracts that "can irreversibly damage the retina, the part of the eye we use to form images and see. Prolonged, frequent exposure can cause . . . a yellowish lesion."

To avoid that outcome or the development of skin cancer around the eye, individuals should wear sunglasses. They should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB, and at least 75% of visible light.

"Grey-coloured lenses are best as they reduce light intensity without distorting colours and should be dark enough to reduce glare, but not so much that you cannot recognize the colours on traffic signals. Choose glasses that are large enough . . . and that wrap around the sides" of the face.

People are advised to minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the rays are most intense.

VisionofChildren.org also assembled a list of diet tips designed to promote eye health. Research indicates many vision problems are caused by conditions - cataracts and macular degeneration among them - that can in some cases be traced to nutrient deficiencies.

For people unable to include all these items in their diet on a regular basis, supplements can help. The American Optometric Association (AOA, www.aoa.org) reports antioxidants can reduce the risk of macular degeneration by 25%.

"Little changes in your diet can have a big impact," AOA says. It suggests 500 mg a day of Vitamin C, 400 mg of Vitamin E, 500 mg of the fatty acids, 10 mg of lutein, 2 mg of zeaxanthin and from 40 to 80 mg of zinc (depending on risk and gender).

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